Police have re-opened an investigation into the attempted rape of a woman in Redditch during 1996 following the acquittal of a man who had served 17 years for the crime.

Victor Nealon, who was living in the town at the time of the attack, was jailed for life in 1997 and freed last December when the conviction was quashed by the Court of Appeal.

Judges made their decision after hearing that fresh DNA evidence cast doubt on the jury’s original verdict.

A review of the case was immediately launched by West Mercia Police following Mr Nealon’s release.

Det Supt Adrian McGee said: “The case review which we have carried out has highlighted some areas where reinvestigation is necessary. This includes the forensic results relating to the victim’s clothing which were detailed during the appeal hearing.

“Given the historic nature of this matter further investigation may take a considerable amount of time. We are continuing to liaise over this with the victim and we have also informed Mr Nealon and his representatives.”

Nealon, 53, was convicted of the attack outside a nightclub but it was quashed when his defence team discovered an unknown person's DNA on clothing that had not been disclosed by West Mercia Police.

It has since been reported that Mr Nealon has been left penniless by his ordeal.

The Ministry of Justice had turned down a compensation claim and said there was no automatic right to a pay-out.

Mark Newby, Mr Nealon's solicitor, said his client was "very angry" about the decision and planned to challenge it.